Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

This Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice recipe is a delightful way to bring together succulent chicken and tender rice in one convenient dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish offers a rich flavor profile thanks to the buttery garlic rice and seasoned chicken. The best part? It’s all made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
• Step 3: Season the Chicken
• Step 4: Add Rice
• Step 5: Assemble Your Dish
• Step 6: Bake Covered
• Step 7: Finish Baking Uncovered
• Step 8: Rest and Serve
• How to Serve Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
• Garnish Options
• Accompaniments
• Sauce Suggestions
• How to Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
• Reheating Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use brown rice for Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice?
• What type of chicken works best?
• Can I make Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice without onions?
• How do I customize my Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This dish requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy cooks.
• Flavorful Combination: The buttery, garlicky rice paired with juicy chicken creates an irresistible meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use different types of rice or chicken cuts to suit your taste and pantry.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together, saving time on cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers reheat well, making it a fantastic option for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (10×15-inch or 25×35 cm)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and helps retain moisture.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the baking dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
* 5 bone-in chicken thigh fillets, skin removed (see Notes for substitutions)

For the Rice:
* 1 onion, chopped (brown, white, or yellow)
* 2 large garlic cloves, minced
* 2 tablespoons (30g) butter (or olive oil)
* 1 ½ cups (270g) uncooked white rice (see Notes for rice options)
* 1 ½ cups (375ml) hot chicken broth/stock
* 1 ¼ cups (315ml) hot water

Chicken Rub:
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* ½ teaspoon garlic powder
* ½ teaspoon onion powder
* ¾ teaspoon salt
* Black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:
* Oil spray (for a golden finish)
* Fresh thyme leaves or finely chopped parsley

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How to Make Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your dish starts cooking at the right temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic evenly across your baking dish. Place the butter in the center. Bake this mixture for 12-15 minutes until softened and fragrant. Mix occasionally if browning too quickly.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

While the onion mixture bakes, combine all Chicken Rub ingredients in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle this rub evenly over both sides of your chicken thighs.

Step 4: Add Rice

Once your baking dish is ready, take it out of the oven. Stir in the uncooked white rice until it’s well mixed with the onion and garlic.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice layer. Pour hot chicken broth and water around the edges of the chicken.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with foil. Bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 7: Finish Baking Uncovered

After 30 minutes, remove the foil. If desired, spray your chicken lightly with oil for a golden finish. Continue baking uncovered for another 20 minutes until the rice has absorbed all liquid and the chicken is golden brown.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Let your baked dish stand for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Carefully remove the chicken pieces and fluff up the rice with a fork. For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving! Enjoy!

How to Serve Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

This delicious oven-baked chicken and rice dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s hearty, flavorful, and can be complemented with a variety of sides and garnishes.

Garnish Options

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme on top for added freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty contrast that brightens the dish.

Accompaniments

• Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad can add a crisp texture alongside the rich chicken and rice.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans make great additions for a colorful plate.

Sauce Suggestions

• Gravy: A simple gravy made from the pan drippings can enhance the flavor even further.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, offer hot sauce on the side to spice things up.

How to Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

For an even better oven-baked chicken and rice experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Bold Seasoning: Use ample seasoning on the chicken to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Proper Baking Dish: Choose a dish that allows for even heat distribution to cook the rice perfectly.
• Liquid Temperature: Always add hot broth and water to help the rice cook evenly and absorb flavors effectively.
• Resting Time: Letting the dish sit after baking allows flavors to meld and makes serving easier.

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Best Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

Pairing side dishes with your oven-baked chicken and rice can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread complements the savory flavors of the chicken and rice.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the richness of the main dish.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances out the meal’s heartiness.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a comfort food classic alongside this dish.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a seasonal touch that enhances the overall dining experience.
6. Caesar Salad: This classic salad brings crisp romaine and creamy dressing as a perfect counterpart to your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold chicken or broth can lead to uneven cooking. Always use room temperature chicken and heated broth for better results.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Make sure to apply the Chicken Rub generously on both sides of the chicken.
• Not fluffing the rice: If you don’t fluff the rice after baking, it may clump together. Use a fork to gently fluff the rice before serving for a better texture.
• Overcrowding the dish: Placing too much chicken or rice in the pan can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for even heat distribution.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken right away can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving for juicier meat.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Freezing is best done within 2 days of cooking; it can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Add a little water or broth in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice for Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice?

Yes, but you’ll need extra liquid and longer cooking time. Use an additional ½ cup of hot water and bake covered for 1 hour.

What type of chicken works best?

Bone-in chicken thighs are ideal as they cook evenly with the rice and stay juicy throughout the process.

Can I make Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice without onions?

Certainly! If you’re not a fan of onions, you can either omit them or substitute with other aromatics like shallots or leeks.

How do I customize my Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas or bell peppers when mixing in the rice for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Oven-Baked Chicken and Rice is not just easy but also versatile! You can customize this dish with various spices or vegetables based on your tastes. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

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